stecken
put · stick · insert
Etwas in etwas anderes hinein tun, sodass es dort bleibt.
The German word "stecken" is a verb with several related meanings primarily connected to putting something into a confined space or being stuck.
Meaning of the root word:
- "stecken" means "to stick," "to put," or "to be stuck."
Uses:
- To insert or place something inside or into (e.g., einen Brief in den Briefkasten stecken – to put a letter in the mailbox).
- To indicate being caught or trapped (e.g., im Stau stecken – to be stuck in a traffic jam).
- Figuratively, also used in expressions about involvement or a situation (e.g., in Schwierigkeiten stecken – to be in trouble).
Similar words:
- einstecken (to put in, to insert)
- stecken bleiben (to get stuck)
- stecken lassen (to leave inside/stuck)
Difference:
- Unlike "legen" (to lay something down, horizontally), "stecken" emphasizes putting something inside or causing it to be stuck.
- Compared to "stellen" (to place something upright/standing), "stecken" usually implies nesting or inserting rather than positioning openly.
In brief, "stecken" focuses on insertion or being stuck, often in a confined or enclosed space.
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Examples
Ich stecke den Schlüssel in die Tasche.verb
I am putting the key in the pocket.
Sie stecken ihre Hand in die Tasche.verb
They put their hand in the pocket.
Die Kinder stecken ihre Hände in den Sand.verb
The children stick their hands in the sand.
Du musst deinen Schlüssel da hinein stecken.verb
You have to put your key in there.
Du musst dein Geld in deine Tasche stecken.verb
You have to stick your money in your pocket.
Sie stecken den Schlüssel in das Schloss.verb
They insert the key into the lock.
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